Houston Mesa Campground serves as the primary equestrian camping destination near Sun Valley, Arizona. Located at approximately 5,200 feet elevation, the area experiences mild spring and fall temperatures with summer highs typically reaching 85-95°F. Winter nights can drop below freezing, making seasonal camping considerations important for both riders and their horses.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Little Green Valley - NF405A Dispersed, riders can access a 7-mile trail to Hells Gate featuring a swimming hole. "This place is dispersed, meaning no hook-ups. Pack out what you pack in, no trash services. Can get a little loud on the weekends with the side by sides zooming around," notes Jessalyn C.
Hiking with non-riders: Near Pivot Rock Canyon, visitors find excellent hiking options. "There is some great hiking especially through the canyon. If you follow the canyon about one mile from the road, then go down and right onto a cow trail, you can get to Pivot Rock Spring," shares Jacob S.
Nearby water activities: Waters around Sun Valley provide refreshing breaks from riding. At Bartlett Flat, "boat traffic isn't too bad and the shore line is great for kids to swim," according to reviewer B O.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Unlike the equestrian area at Houston Mesa, many nearby campgrounds offer significant tree cover. At Mogollon Campground, "the sites are pretty spreadout from each other. Woods Canyon Lake is just a short drive away to enjoy hiking and you are within walking distance to the Rim," explains Jessica C.
Proximity to supplies: The area's closeness to towns provides convenient access to any forgotten items. "Short drive to water," notes Carlos Q. about Houston Mesa, while Rick G. adds it has "close proximity to Payson with all the amenities."
Year-round accessibility: While Houston Mesa operates seasonally, some nearby areas allow for extended camping seasons. At Milk Ranch Point Road, campers appreciate that "good roads in" make the area accessible, with Nick V. noting that "they just leveled and packed gravel down so the road is accessible for non 4x4 cars."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by forest: The Sun Valley region spans multiple national forests with different fire rules. Jacob S. notes about Colcord Ridge Campground: "Tonto National Forest is usually fire restricted this time of year but Coconino is not. This site is barely into Coconino. It is still very dry so be careful with it!"
Campground popularity fluctuations: Many sites fill quickly during peak seasons. For dispersed camping at Little Green Valley, "keep following the road back, there is campsites all the way along it and it gets very peaceful and quiet," advises Aidan M.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly across sites. Michael B. notes about Houston Mesa that there's "a lot of traffic noise - and there's a Home Depot across the road from the entrance. Less than 10 minutes from Payson."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water spots: Families appreciate the nearby water access options. Will W. describes Houston Mesa as having "sites are good size and well kept! Amenities were in great condition and our favorite day use river spot is 15 minutes away."
Natural exploration areas: Children enjoy the undeveloped spaces around Larson Ridge Camping Area, where Krista Z. explains: "The campground has been very busy so I imagine during the summer getting a spot could be tricky. From what I can tell most sites could be reached by a car and had room for smaller trailers or tents."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to observe desert wildlife safely. Rose C. reports: "Saw some deer while on a hike and seems like a great area for off-roading in an ATV or dirt bike."
Tips from RVers
Water and dump stations: RVers should plan water usage carefully. Chris P. notes: "No hookups here at all but nice clean bathrooms to use. Dump station was closed while we were here and it looks like they charge to use it when open."
Site sizing and privacy: Many campgrounds offer varied site sizes. Miguel M. explains Houston Mesa has "spots are fairly large and allow for some large rigs and is located right on the edge of town. No hook ups though but you can fill your tanks on site."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. Brad and Britany B. share: "While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable. Additionally, campsites near the freeway can experience some road noise. However, the convenience of having Home Depot and Walmart nearby outweighs these minor drawbacks."
